The economy of the region of South Africa in ancient and medieval times was shaped by its diverse geographical conditions, natural resources, indigenous societies, and interactions with external communities. The region, consisting of present-day South Africa and surrounding areas of southern Africa, developed economic systems based on hunting, gathering, pastoralism, agriculture, mining, and trade. Unlike many ancient civilizations of North Africa or the Mediterranean world, South African societies did not develop large centralized states at an early stage, but they created complex economic networks and adapted effectively to their environmental surroundings. The earliest inhabitants of southern Africa were hunter-gatherer communities, including the ancestors of the San people. Their economy was based on hunting wild animals, collecting edible plants, fishing, and using natural resources available in their surroundings. They followed a mobile lifestyle, moving from one region to another according to seasonal changes and availability of food resources. The San people possessed detailed knowledge of plants, animals, and ecological conditions. Their economic activities were closely connected with their environment, and they maintained a balanced relationship with nature. The development of pastoralism introduced a major economic transformation in the region. Groups associated with the Khoikhoi